Development Materials

Hard Surfaces Increase Runoff

Unfortunately, the word development is associated with concrete and other hard or impervious surfaces. Sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, all change the natural path rainwater takes upon contact with the surface. Instead of soaking into the ground or infiltrating, rainwater is “run off” the impervious concrete surfaces. As more and more natural space is converted into developed area, the runoff increases. This increased runoff creates a greater volume of stormwater pollution to our local water bodies.

Improved Development Techniques

Development is a natural part of progression and though it is inevitable, progressive ideas have made development’s impact on stormwater and runoff greatly reduced. Consider using permeable surfaces or rain gardens instead of concrete and roof gutters.